<p>Ted Yoho wasted no time.</p><p>Last Saturday, President Barack Obama said he would seek congressional support for a military strike in Syria.</p><p>And last Saturday, Congressman Yoho said he was against a military strike in Syria.</p><p>Yoho, a Gainesville Republican whose district includes part of Marion County, didn't wait for another briefing or another speech from the secretary of state.</p><p>He knew enough and he announced his decision.</p><p>Should Yoho have waited until he learned more?</p><p>No. There was adequate information available on which to base a decision.</p><p>Could Yoho change his mind? Yes, but it's unlikely, and that sentiment came through loud and clear.</p><p>Was it unfair for Yoho to ask that the president consult Congress — and then announce his decision before such consultation could formally occur?</p><p>No. Yoho said seeking consultation was the right thing to do; he didn't say he was likely to change his mind.</p><p>We elect leaders to lead. Sometimes they need more time and more information before they can make a decision.</p><p>But sometimes they don't. And they shouldn't pretend otherwise.</p><p>I found Yoho's speedy response refreshing. No use leading people to believe he was undecided.</p><p>Even critics of his position should be happy. At least they know not to waste their time trying to persuade someone who pretty much is beyond persuasion.</p><p>Marion County has two other congressional representatives. Republican Rich Nugent is listed as a "no" vote, while Democrat Corrine Brown is undecided.</p><p>If Brown is truly undecided, then I applaud her caution as much as I applaud Yoho's certainty.</p><p>She is doing what's right for her. False certainty is just as bad as false uncertainty.</p><p>The president is scheduled to address the nation Tuesday. Like Brown, I'm uncertain what should be done in Syria, so I look forward to learning more.</p><p>Cases like this can make for some odd political alliances.</p><p>On the Washington Post's home page Friday, the lead Syria story referenced just such a pairing: Yoho and Democrat Alan Grayson, both of whom oppose military action in Syria.</p><p>The Post called Grayson "Congress' leading liberal loudmouth."</p><p>Yoho, of course, is more of a tea party conservative.</p><p>Grayson's district once included part of Marion County. But now he's all yours, Orlando.</p><p>Both men have landed in hot water for their rhetorical flourishes and missteps. This is a good time to add some points on the other side of the reputation ledger.</p><p>About that I am certain.</p><p><i>Contact Jim Ross at 671-6412 or jim.ross@ocala.com. Follow him on Twitter @jimross96.</i></p>